Do Share Recipe

One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe | Cheesy & Easy

I have to tell you, making this One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice Recipe was an absolute game-changer for my weeknight dinners! I love how everything cooks in a single skillet, which saves me so much time and cleanup. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender chicken and fluffy rice had me coming back for seconds.

I couldn’t resist sharing this recipe because it’s both comforting and packed with flavor. If you enjoy quick, hearty meals, this one is a must-try. You can also enjoy similar golden seared cod with herb butter sauce recipe for another easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this recipe so simple yet flavorful. I’ve included some tips to help you get the best results.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into 1-inch pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.
Olive Oil – I prefer light-tasting extra-virgin olive oil; you can also use avocado or canola oil.
Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth without overpowering the dish.
Onion Powder – Enhances the overall flavor and complements the cheese sauce.
Cumin – Gives a subtle smoky note that pairs beautifully with Mexican-style flavors.
Kosher Salt – Balances all the seasonings perfectly.
Black Pepper – Freshly cracked is best for a sharper, fresher flavor.
Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and richness to the rice as it cooks.
Nacho Cheese Sauce – Use the canned or jarred kind; fresh cheese can also work but may need extra stirring.
Rotel Tomatoes – This diced tomato and green chili combo gives the dish its signature queso flavor. Choose mild, original, or spicy based on your heat preference.
White Rice – Use regular long-grain rice; avoid minute rice because it won’t absorb the flavors as well.

Note: Serves 4–6 people. You can also try a creamy, garlicky option like copycat Olive Garden chicken scampi recipe for a different style of comforting chicken dish.

Variations

You can tweak this recipe to suit different diets or flavor preferences:

Dairy-Free – Substitute the nacho cheese sauce with a dairy-free cheese or cashew cream sauce.
Spicy Kick – Use hot Rotel or add a diced jalapeño for more heat.
Extra Veggies – Stir in bell peppers, corn, or spinach for added nutrition.
Low-Sodium – Use low-sodium broth and cheese sauce.
Creamier Version – Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to make it ultra-rich.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of how long this dish will take:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

12-inch Skillet Pan with High Sides – Perfect for cooking chicken and rice together without spilling.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – For stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – To get precise ingredient amounts.
Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

How to Make One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

Cooking this dish is as easy as it gets. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a comforting dinner ready in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and golden.

Step 2: Add the Queso Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, nacho cheese sauce, and Rotel tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine, making sure the chicken is coated in the creamy sauce. Bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet, stirring to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Cover the pan and let the rice cook for 15 minutes, or until tender and fluffy, absorbing all the flavors.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, give the dish a final stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro or diced avocado, for an extra burst of flavor.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, these little tweaks make a big difference:

I like to cut the chicken into smaller pieces so it cooks faster and stays juicy.
Stirring the rice occasionally prevents it from sticking to the bottom.
For extra creaminess, I sometimes add a spoonful of cream cheese near the end.
Taste the dish before serving; sometimes a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce elevates the flavors perfectly.

How to Serve One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice

This dish looks as good as it tastes. Serve it straight from the skillet or plate it individually:

Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced green onions.
Add avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.
Pair with a side of black beans or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving, so you can plan your meal accordingly:

Calories: 450–500
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It keeps well and the flavors intensify overnight.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice has become a favorite in my house:

Quick and Easy – One skillet, minimal prep, and dinner is ready in 30 minutes.
Family-Friendly – Mild and cheesy, perfect for picky eaters.
Versatile – Swap proteins, add veggies, or adjust spice levels easily.
Comforting – Creamy, cheesy, and filling, this dish hits all the comfort food notes.
Minimal Cleanup – One pot means fewer dishes and less stress after dinner.

This One Pot Queso Chicken and Rice is the ultimate weeknight dinner: easy, cheesy, and totally satisfying. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Ben Carraoli